Obesity has become a growing global health concern, leading to serious conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. For those struggling to lose weight through diet and exercise alone, the gastric balloon procedure offers a safe, effective, and non-surgical alternative. In recent years, Vietnam has emerged as a trusted destination for gastric balloon treatment, offering world-class hospitals, affordable pricing, and attentive aftercare that appeals to international patients seeking both quality and value.
This article explains everything you need to know about getting a gastric balloon in Vietnam — from how the procedure works, to its benefits, costs, recovery, and why Vietnam is becoming a top choice for medical tourists seeking weight loss treatments.
What Is a Gastric Balloon?
A gastric balloon, also known as an intragastric balloon, is a temporary medical device placed inside the stomach to help patients lose weight without surgery. The balloon, made of soft silicone, is inserted endoscopically (through the mouth) and filled with saline or gas. This reduces the stomach’s capacity, helping patients feel full faster and eat smaller portions.
The balloon typically remains in place for 6 to 12 months, during which time patients undergo nutritional counseling and lifestyle support to ensure long-term weight management success.
How the Gastric Balloon Procedure Works
The process is quick, minimally invasive, and performed on an outpatient basis at top international hospitals in Vietnam:
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Pre-procedure consultation — Patients meet with a bariatric specialist and nutritionist for assessment, BMI calculation, and medical evaluation.
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Insertion — Using an endoscope, the doctor guides the deflated balloon into the stomach.
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Inflation — Once positioned, it’s filled with a sterile saline solution or air (usually 400–700 ml).
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Observation — Patients are monitored for 1–2 hours before being discharged the same day.
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Follow-up care — Regular check-ups, nutrition planning, and exercise guidance are provided.
The entire procedure typically lasts 15–30 minutes and requires no incisions, no scars, and no hospital stay.
Benefits of Gastric Balloon Treatment
Opting for a gastric balloon offers numerous benefits, especially for patients who want to avoid surgery:
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Non-surgical and reversible: No cuts, no general anesthesia, and no permanent alteration to the stomach.
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Effective weight loss: Most patients lose 10–25 kg (22–55 lbs) within six months.
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Short recovery time: You can return to normal activities within 24–48 hours.
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Improved metabolic health: Reduces risks of diabetes, hypertension, and joint problems.
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Affordable pricing: Vietnam offers world-class medical care at a fraction of Western costs.
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Personalized support: Nutritionists and doctors guide you throughout your journey.
Types of Gastric Balloons Available in Vietnam
Leading hospitals in Vietnam offer various internationally recognized gastric balloon systems, including:
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Orbera® Intragastric Balloon (USA) – The most widely used and FDA-approved system, effective for up to 12 months.
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Spatz3 Adjustable Balloon (Israel) – Adjustable volume and longer duration (up to 12 months).
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Elipse™ Swallowable Balloon (UK) – Capsule balloon swallowed without endoscopy or anesthesia; naturally excreted after 4 months.
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MedSil Balloon (Europe) – High-quality silicone balloon suitable for short-term weight loss (6 months).
Each system offers unique benefits depending on patient goals, BMI, and medical conditions. Your doctor will recommend the most suitable option during consultation.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Gastric Balloon?
The gastric balloon is suitable for individuals who:
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Have a BMI between 27 and 40.
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Have been unable to achieve significant weight loss through diet and exercise.
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Do not want or qualify for bariatric surgery.
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Are motivated to follow a healthy lifestyle after balloon removal.
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Have no history of gastrointestinal surgery or ulcers.
It’s also a safe option for those who need to lose weight before other surgeries (e.g., joint replacement, fertility treatments, or cosmetic procedures).
Gastric Balloon Cost in Vietnam
One of the biggest advantages of undergoing the gastric balloon procedure in Vietnam is affordability.
| Country | Average Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Vietnam | $2,500 – $4,500 |
| Thailand | $4,000 – $6,000 |
| South Korea | $5,000 – $7,000 |
| Australia | $7,000 – $9,000 |
| USA | $8,000 – $12,000 |
In Vietnam, the price usually includes:
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Doctor consultation and pre-assessment
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Balloon insertion and medication
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Hospital/daycare charges
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Follow-up visits and dietary counseling
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24/7 patient support in English
Hospitals such as Vinmec International Hospital, FV Hospital, and Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are among the top facilities providing this service for international patients.
Consultation about gastric balloon weight loss treatment between a Vietnamese specialist and a foreign patient at a top hospital in Vietnam
Recovery and Aftercare
After the balloon placement, patients may experience mild nausea or stomach discomfort for the first few days, which can be managed with prescribed medication. Most resume daily activities within 1–2 days.
Ongoing support is crucial for long-term success. Vietnamese hospitals provide personalized nutrition and fitness programs, helping patients transition to sustainable lifestyle changes. After 6–12 months, the balloon is removed through the same endoscopic process, and patients typically maintain 70–80% of their weight loss if they continue healthy habits.
Why Choose Vietnam for Gastric Balloon Treatment?
1. World-Class Hospitals
Vietnam’s private hospitals—such as Vinmec, FV Hospital, and Tam Anh Hospital—offer internationally accredited standards (including JCI accreditation) and English-speaking staff, ensuring comfort and safety for global patients.
2. Highly Skilled Specialists
Many Vietnamese bariatric doctors are trained in Europe, the U.S., or Singapore, and possess extensive experience in endoscopic weight-loss techniques.
3. Affordable Yet Premium Care
You can save up to 60–70% compared to Western countries, without compromising on quality. Packages include airport pickup, accommodation support, and interpreter assistance.
4. Convenient Travel and Visa Support
Vietnam welcomes international medical tourists with visa-free entry (15–30 days) for many nationalities and medical visa assistance for longer stays. Major airports in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have direct international flights.
5. Attractive Recovery Destinations
After your gastric balloon procedure, you can recover in Vietnam’s beautiful coastal resorts such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc, combining medical care with peaceful relaxation.
Step-by-Step Process for International Patients
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Send Your Medical Information
Share your BMI, height, weight, and health background via email or WhatsApp to receive a preliminary consultation. -
Receive Your Treatment Plan & Quote
A specialist team will provide an estimated treatment plan and cost breakdown from Vietnam’s leading hospitals. -
Book Your Procedure
Once confirmed, our coordinators assist with appointment scheduling, visa, and travel support. -
Arrive in Vietnam
Upon arrival, airport pickup and interpreter services are available for your convenience. -
Undergo the Procedure
The gastric balloon is placed in less than 30 minutes, and you can return to your hotel the same day. -
Follow-Up & Lifestyle Coaching
Regular check-ins and online consultations ensure long-term success even after returning home.
FAQs About Gastric Balloon in Vietnam
1. Is the gastric balloon procedure safe?
Yes. It’s approved by the FDA and widely used globally. The risk of complications is less than 0.1% when performed by experienced specialists.
2. Can the balloon burst or leak?
Leakage is extremely rare. If it occurs, the saline (colored with blue dye) passes naturally, and doctors can remove or replace the balloon.
3. How much weight can I expect to lose?
Most patients lose 15–25% of their body weight in 6 months, depending on adherence to diet and exercise.
4. Will I need to stay in Vietnam long?
Typically, international patients stay 3–5 days—including consultation, procedure, and initial recovery.
5. Is financing or package pricing available?
Yes, most hospitals offer all-inclusive medical packages for international patients, covering tests, procedure, medications, and follow-up.
Top Hospitals for Gastric Balloon in Vietnam
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Vinmec International Hospital – JCI-accredited, advanced endoscopic center.
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FV Hospital (Ho Chi Minh City) – International-standard care, French-trained doctors.
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Tam Anh General Hospital – Modern facilities and multi-disciplinary obesity treatment programs.
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City International Hospital (CIH) – English-speaking medical team with experience in bariatric support.
Conclusion
For international patients seeking a non-surgical, affordable, and effective weight loss solution, the gastric balloon in Vietnam offers the perfect combination of safety, comfort, and long-term results. With skilled doctors, modern facilities, and lower costs compared to Western nations, Vietnam has become one of Asia’s top destinations for weight loss and bariatric procedures.
Whether you’re just beginning your weight loss journey or preparing for a major lifestyle change, Vietnam provides a supportive environment for success—where medical excellence meets compassionate care.